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[5 Differences] Between Acrylic and Fiberglass Walk In Bathtubs

Choosing a bathtub to use within your home isn’t the simple decision that it seems like on the surface. Especially if you are working with a company that offers tubs made from different materials. Today, if you’re looking to purchase a bathtub you’ll usually be looking at options made from either acrylic or fiberglass. Each of these options has their own benefits, but they also come with some downsides. If you want to make the most of your purchase, it’s important to understand the difference in acrylic vs fiberglass tub styles, and what you can expect from the option you decide on.

Acrylic and fiberglass walk-in tubs are both molded with plastic. Acrylic and fiberglass walk in bathtubs are popular because of their attractiveness, durability, and convenience. Another similarity between acrylic and fiberglass is that you can use soapy water, vinegar or just plain water to clean and maintain either one. However, there are a few differences between acrylic and fiberglass walk-in bathtubs.

1. Acrylic is made of a material which is heated and vacuum formed over a mold which creates the continuous waterproof membrane. It is also reinforced with fiberglass for more stability and insulation. Acrylic is non-porous by nature and retains the glossy finish in a better manner compared to other materials. Acrylic also does not require much maintenance and it is usually recommended to avoid harsh cleaners because acrylic can get scratched easily.

Acrylic is an excellent low-maintenance option that you’ll find yourself enjoying having, but it usually comes at a greater cost than something like fiberglass does. That’s because it’s tougher, holds up longer over time and usually isn’t so difficult to keep in one piece. If you want a beautiful bathtub that is going to last for many years after its initial installation, going with a tough acrylic tub is an investment worth making.

2. Fiberglass is sprayed with polyester resin to create the mold, then it is reinforced with fiberglass particles. Fiberglass material is more porous and brittle than acrylic and also has a tendency to get dull and lose color over time. Fiberglass is also prone to scratches if it is not properly maintained. While fiberglass is a more affordable option whether you are looking for a walk in tubs in Phoenix, AZ or you are searching for a standard bathtub, they just aren’t as durable overall. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t purchase a fiberglass tub though. There are some situations where you could really benefit from such a tub.

One being if you are upgrading a home just to sell it off. A new fiberglass tub will look about as good as an acrylic tub does, which will serve the purpose of making your home look upgraded and modern without as much of a cost involved. Sure, the tub is going to require more maintenance and will likely need replacing sooner, but if you sell the house off before those issues are present you’ll save some on the cost of the remodel while still being able to benefit from an increased home value that comes from an upgraded bathroom.

3. Fiberglass walk-in tubs are lightweight, which makes them easy to install. Also, they are not as expensive compared to an acrylic walk in bathtubs. But, they are harder to repair than acrylic tubs if they get damaged. If you’re looking for a way to save some money on your next tub purchase, investing in a fiberglass tub is one way that you can cut costs. The downside to that is you will likely spend more money on maintenance over time. The costs can really add up, and if you plan on keeping the same tub for a number of years you will likely spend more money on a fiberglass option eventually than you would have for a sturdier acrylic tub.

4. Acrylic walk in bathtubs is easy to clean and are very durable. Acrylic walk in bathtubs is more expensive compared to other types of walk-in bathtubs. That doesn’t mean that they are a good investment though. You just need to consider how long you will be using the tub and how much work you want to put into making sure that it remains in good shape over time. If you want the toughest product that is going to hold up well, it makes sense to get top quality acrylic to walk in tubs in Phoenix, AZ rather than settling for a lower quality alternative.

5. Acrylic and fiberglass walk in tubs have benefits and drawbacks. The right choice for you depends on the budget and standards you have. Just keep in mind the durability and cost of each option before you make a choice. Also, always have your tub installed by a professional to avoid major issues occurring after the installation. It’s not worth saving a bit of money to install a tub yourself or to have a low-quality company do the work for you. Give us a call today to get quotes for either type of bathtub that you want in your home. We offer stock tub installations, walk-in products and even custom bathtubs that can fit your specific needs very well.